Introduction
Grade 9 Technology Mini PAT Term 1 Answers: Key Definitions and Concepts
South African Grade 9 students face the Mini Performance Assessment Task (PAT) in Technology, a test designed to measure their ability to solve real-world problems. Administered every term, it challenges learners to move beyond textbook definitions and apply their knowledge in practical ways. Here, we break down the answers to Term 1’s core questions—all based on the official curriculum.
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Question 1: What’s the difference between a machine and a tool?
A tool is all about human effort—think of a hammer or a screwdriver. A machine, on the other hand, is a bit more sophisticated. It converts energy—whether it’s electricity, wind, or steam—to do the work for you. So, while a tool might help you drive a nail, a machine could be the power drill that does it faster and with less effort.
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Question 2: Name the three main types of machines.
Simple machines are the basic building blocks of mechanics. They include levers, pulleys, and wheels turning axles. Compound machines, meanwhile, are like the Swiss Army knives of the machine world—they combine multiple simple parts to create something more complex, like a bicycle or a car. And then there are complex machines, which are entire ecosystems of components working together in harmony. Think robots, airplanes, or even spacecraft.
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Question 3: How does a system differ from a subsystem?
A system is the big picture—the entire interconnected network of parts working together to achieve a goal. A subsystem, on the other hand, is a specialized piece of that bigger system, doing one critical job. It’s like the difference between a symphony orchestra and the string section—both are essential, but one is the whole, and the other is a crucial part of it.
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Question 4: List the four types of systems.
Nature gave us the first systems—the solar system, the water cycle, the food chain. Humans engineered the next wave: computers, cars, skyscrapers. Then came social systems—families, schools, governments—where people shape the rules and dynamics. Finally, there are technological systems: robots, communication networks, and everything in between. Each type has its own unique characteristics and functions.
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Question 5: What’s the gap between a product and a process?
A process is the step-by-step recipe, the method you follow to create something. The product, on the other hand, is the tangible result—the thing you hold, use, or sell after following those steps. It’s like the difference between a cake recipe and the delicious cake itself.
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Question 6: Outline the design process.
First, you need to pinpoint the problem—what are you trying to solve? Then, dive into research to understand the context and constraints. Next, sketch out a solution, brainstorming and iterating until you have a viable idea. Finally, test it ruthlessly—because theory meets reality in the evaluation stage, and you need to make sure your solution actually works.
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Question 7: Prototype vs. Final product?
A prototype is the rough draft, the initial model built to test if the idea works. It’s not perfect, but it’s a crucial step in the design process. The final product, on the other hand, is polished, refined, and ready for consumers. It’s the end result of all that hard work and iteration.
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Question 8: The three material categories.
Nature provides the raw materials—wood, stone, metal. Humans invent the synthetic materials—plastic, rubber, glass. Then there are composites, which blend the strengths of different materials to create something even more robust, like fiberglass or concrete.
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Question 9: Structure versus mechanism.
A structure stands still, bearing weight—like a bridge or a wall. It’s all about stability and support. A mechanism, on the other hand, moves, transferring force or motion—think gears, pistons, or levers. It’s about action and functionality.
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Question 10: Four types of structures.
Frames are all about beams and columns, holding weight with a clear, open design. Shells use curved surfaces to distribute stress, creating a smooth, streamlined look. Solids are dense and rigid, providing maximum strength and stability. Hybrids? They’re a mix of multiple principles, like a car’s chassis that combines different structural elements to create a robust and versatile design.